2 Chronicles 20:36

Authorized King James Version

And he joined himself with him to make ships to go to Tarshish: and they made the ships in Ezion-geber.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וַיְחַבְּרֵ֣הוּ

H2266

And he joined

to join (literally or figuratively); specifically (by means of spells) to fascinate

עִמּ֔וֹ

H5973

adverb or preposition, with (i.e., in conjunction with), in varied applications; specifically, equally with; often with prepositional prefix (and then

וַיַּֽעֲשׂ֥וּ

H6213

and they made

to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application

אֳנִיּ֖וֹת

H591

ships

a ship

לָלֶ֣כֶת

H1980

to walk (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)

תַּרְשִׁ֑ישׁ

H8659

to Tarshish

tarshish, a place on the mediterranean, hence, the ephithet of a merchant vessel (as if for or from that port); also the name of a persian and of an i

וַיַּֽעֲשׂ֥וּ

H6213

and they made

to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application

אֳנִיּ֖וֹת

H591

ships

a ship

בְּעֶצְי֥וֹן

#10

גָּֽבֶר׃

H6100

in Eziongeber

etsjon-geber, a place on the red sea

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to 2 Chronicles. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of 2 Chronicles Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?
How might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?